Fact Finders: Can my pet get coronavirus?

TUCSON, Ariz. (KOLD News 13) - Spending more time with your pets may be one of the best parts of staying home during the coronavirus outbreak. But, can your four-legged friends get sick, too?

That question was sent to our KOLD Fact Finders Team.

The first case of an animal testing positive in the United States came over the weekend after a tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York city tested positive. Samples from this tiger were taken and tested after several lions and tigers at the zoo showed symptoms of respiratory illness. Public health officials believe these large cats became sick after being exposed to a zoo employee who was actively shedding virus.

“There have been a few reported cases of animals testing positive, but at this point, there’s no kind of scientific evidence to back it up as far as the spread from pets to people,” said Dr. Tara Farrell, veterinarian at The Pet Doctor on Oracle Road.

According to the CDC, coronaviruses that infect animals can sometimes be spread to people, but this is rare. The CDC is aware of a very small number of pets, both dogs and cats, outside the United States that have been infected.

“I think if pets played a role in giving this to people, we would know by now," said Dr. Rachael Kreisler with the Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine.

“The biggest thing is to practice good hygiene, like everyone’s been saying," said Dr. Farrell. "Wash your hands during, before and after interaction with animals. Washing your hands after feeding them, handling their waste and other supplies.”

The United States Department of Agriculture suggests anyone sick with COVID-19 should restrict contact with animals, out of an abundance of caution including pets, during their illness, just as they would with other people.

If animals can catch the virus, can they give it back to people?

At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that any animals, including pets or livestock, can spread COVID-19 infection to people.

USDA and CDC do not recommend routine testing of animals for this virus. Because the situation is ever-evolving, public and animal health officials may decide to test certain animals out of an abundance of caution. The decision to test will be made collaboratively between local, state or federal public and animal health officials.

Should I avoid contact with pets or other animals if I am sick from coronavirus (COVID-19)?

You should restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, just like you would with other people. Although there have not been reports of pets becoming sick with COVID-19 in the United States, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets. More information is available on how to keep people and animals safe at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html.